Which extinguishing agents are suitable for Alpha fires?

For Alpha fires, which are primarily fueled by ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, and some types of plastics, the most effective extinguishing agents are Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) and water. These agents work by cooling the burning material and forming a barrier over the surface of the fire.

Water is particularly effective as it can absorb heat from the fire, thus lowering the temperature below the ignition point. AFFF adds a layer of foam that smothers the fire by cutting off the oxygen supply while also cooling the material beneath. This combination of cooling and smothering properties is critical for effectively extinguishing Alpha fires.

While the other agents listed have their uses, they are not as suitable for tackling Alpha fires specifically. For instance, CO2 and Halon are more effective on flammable liquid fires and in enclosed spaces rather than on solid materials. PKP (Potassium Bicarbonate) is used for Class B and C fires. Dry chemical agents can also be effective but are generally considered less optimal compared to AFFF or water in the context of ordinary combustibles.